Soulscape 19, A Great Culture Is Shaped by Great Art
From My Upcoming Book: Soulscape – The Role of Art in Our Lives
Michelangelo, David, Florence, Galleria dell'Accademia, 1501-1504. Photo: Jörg Bittner Unna. WC.
Lorenzo de’ Medici, renowned for his collection of ancient Greek sculptures such as the Medici Venus, sought to foster a new generation of sculptors capable of rivaling the masterpieces of antiquity. Giorgio Vasari recounts that Lorenzo was “grieved that there were not to be found in his time sculptors noble and famous enough to equal the many painters of the highest merit.” This led him to establish a sculpture school, inviting talented young artists like Michelangelo, whom Lorenzo took in as a ward and supported as a member of his household.
Michelangelo not only fulfilled Lorenzo’s aspirations but far exceeded them with works like the David. This iconic sculpture brilliantly merged the Christian narrative of David with the ideals of ancient Greek art, exemplifying the integration of classical humanism with medieval Christianity. This synthesis became the hallmark of the High Renaissance, and its ideals, magnified through Michelangelo’s genius, continue to influence Western culture to this day.
Art is a window to our future.
Artwork: David by Michelangelo.
Written by Michael Newberry.
Video and Voice created with Clipchamp.
Just beautiful; this sculpture had to be the most well known. It has permeated culture in so many ways.
I’ve seen the David in person, I was awestruck, beautiful. Michelangelo saw the image in the marble and he released it, so magnificent!